Hypertensive Optic Neuropathy Related to Chorioretinal Lesions

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To investigate the relationship between chorioretinal lesions and papilledema in patients with hypertensive optic neuropathy. METHODS: We analyzed the angiographic findings of 142 patients (284 eyes) who had been diagnosed with hypertensive chorioretinal disease in the ophthalmic outpatient department of our hospital, from March 2001 to December 2003. We classified hypertensive ocular disorders to either the optic disc edema group or the non-optic disc edema group. RESULTS: There were 34 patients with hypertensive optic neuropathy. With an analysis of color photo and angiographic findings, a significant correlation of optic disc edema was seen in Elschnig's spot, prominent watershed zone, and retinal hemorrhage. CONCLUSIONS: Hypertensive optic neuropathy was significantly related to retinal hemorrhage, Elschnig's spot, and prominent watershed zone. We should carefully observe the patients who have these lesions.